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In the dynamic landscape of modern healthcare, the fusion of technology, art, and design is proving to be a catalyst for innovation, particularly in fields like Biomedical Engineering. At the forefront of this convergence is the Research and Community Service Institute (LPPM) of Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Indonesia’s oldest technology institution.
Through its recent endeavours, such as the 4th edition of the Art+Technology Dialogue, ITB is showcasing the transformative potential of interdisciplinary collaborations in advancing health technology solutions for a healthier future.
Central to this dialogue is the perspective shared by Allya Paramita Koesoema, ST, MT, PhD, from ITB’s School of Electrical and Informatics Engineering (STEI), who highlights the intrinsic link between Biomedical Engineering, technology, and the human experience. Koesoema underscores that technology should serve humanity, not the other way around, emphasising the importance of leveraging innovation to enhance human well-being.
Biomedical Engineering, as elucidated by Koesoema, represents a synergy of engineering, science, and health sciences. Through collaborative efforts, this fusion has led to groundbreaking advancements in healthcare technology, spanning bioelectronics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and robotics. However, Koesoema acknowledges that while functionality is paramount, aesthetics and user-friendliness are equally crucial in maximising the impact of these innovations.
Recognising this need, ITB is spearheading initiatives to bridge the gap between technology and design, thereby optimising health technologies for improved healthcare outcomes and quality of life. This entails fostering collaboration between art, design, and engineering disciplines to ensure that innovations are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and culturally relevant.
Illustrating this approach is the development of the “Sahabat Bunda” (Mother’s Friend) mobile health application, a collaborative project focused on maternal and child health. Tailored to local needs, the application features three modules for midwives, mothers, and policymakers. Through iterative design processes and user feedback, the Sahabat Bunda application exemplifies how technology, art, and design converge to address societal health challenges effectively.
Moreover, ITB’s commitment to innovation extends beyond digital solutions. The integration of non-digital media, such as the “Bunda Cermat” (Careful Mother) board game, underscores a holistic approach to healthcare. By incorporating elements of family financial literacy, this initiative not only enhances health outcomes but also empowers communities through education and awareness.
Similarly, the “Kapan Ya Bu?” (When, Mom?) toolkit serves as a vital resource for mothers, aiding in the tracking of pregnancy and child development milestones. Through continuous refinement and adaptation, these projects exemplify ITB’s dedication to developing inclusive, culturally sensitive health solutions that evolve with the needs of the community.
Nevertheless, navigating the complexities of multidisciplinary collaboration poses challenges, as highlighted by Koesoema. Diverse backgrounds among team members necessitate a cohesive approach to unite resources effectively. By embracing a sustainable co-design process, ITB aims to harness the collective expertise of art, design, and engineering to drive meaningful impact in healthcare innovation.
ITB’s endeavors underscore the transformative potential of interdisciplinary collaborations in addressing pressing healthcare challenges. Through the convergence of technology, art, and design, ITB is pioneering holistic approaches to health innovation, ultimately striving towards a healthier future for all.
At the forefront of innovation and digital development, Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) is pioneering groundbreaking solutions that integrate technology across fields to address complex societal challenges in healthcare and beyond.
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